husky crosses

Question
Having read your answer re: the owner in Sth Africa with a husky x border collie, I just wondered if you thought a lab cross husky would be a slightly calmer cross?  Also, do crosses howl less than a full husky?  (I have read that it is not good to cross huskys with certain breeds, i.e. malamutes, german shepherd etc).  We are experienced border collie owners and currently own a 3yr old b/c.  If we decide to get a 2nd dog, we were possibly considering a husky/cross as we feel a full husky might not be the right dog for us due to some of their traits etc.

Many thanks.

Answer
Well, the problem with crosses is that you really don't know what you are getting, as some traits might be dormant, recessive, dominant, etc.  As a general rule, with Sibes being intelligent, very active, stubborn and disobedient, any cross with more obedient or relaxed breeds can produce a dog with more "desirable" traits.  I would think that lab crosses would definitely be a decent combination.  Usually, crosses don't howl as much or as easily, but replace it more with the barking.  :)  So don't expect it to be too quiet necessarily.  As for breeds that you've heard are not good to mix with a Sibe, I haven't heard that, but it all depends on what you are going for.  And really, I think the main difference between border collies and Sibes is while they both have similar levels of activity and intelligence, Sibes are missing that obedience thing that makes border collies a lot of fun to work with . . .